Things You'll Need:
- iPod Touch
- Microphone Headset
- Nimbuzz or Fring Application from Apple's app store
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Step 1
Stop Wishing - If you're like me, you've had your eye on the iPhone since it came out. It's one of the most innovative devices to hit the market in years, and yet, I can't justify the purchase. Though the price tag is a little steep, that's not what keeps me from buying one. The only reason I haven't purchased the iPhone is that the monthly service fees are way to high. Luckily, now there's a way around it. It's called the 2nd generation iPod touch.
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Step 2
Buy an iPod touch - Buying an iPod touch is your only major expense to making your poor man's iPhone. The new 2nd generation versions have microphone capabilities, as well as some other handy features that make the poor man's iPhone a reality. I recommend buying the 16GB model which is, in my opinion, the best value. 8GB might even be enough for you. Just steer clear of the 32GB model. Very few people need that much space, and unless you want to store your entire movie collection on it, you will never fill it.
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Step 3
iPod Touch / iPhone headsetBuy a microphone headset - Because the iPod touch doesn't have a built-in microphone, you will have to purchase a mic headset. These can be found at any apple store for about $30, or find one online like I did for about $6. Simply plug it in, and you're ready for the next step.
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Step 4
SkypeInstall an application - Now, all you need to do is download and install a free app from the iTunes app store. There are a number of applications that will let you use your iPod touch as a phone. The three I use are Fring, Nimbuzz, and Skype. These applications will let you connect to Skype, Google Talk, Facebook, MSN Messenger and more. Just enter your login information, and you are ready to make your first call.
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Step 5
Calling with your iPod touch - The only drawback of the poor man's iPhone is that you can only use it in areas where you have a Wi-Fi signal. It works fine for me because I have Wi-Fi at work and at home, the two places I am most of the day. But, for $0 a month, I'm willing to live with the limitations.
